Tardy. Delayed. Behind. Late. Whatever you want to call it, don’t do it.
Being late to an interview is one of the reasons that you may not be hired. Being tardy may be sending a message to a potential employer that you are not reliable, that you don’t value the time of others (you know, like the person who will be signing your paycheck), or that you are just plain irresponsible. Not to mention, that if you are peeling into the interview on two wheels, you cannot possibly be the most prepared to shine.
Here are a few tips to help you get to that interview on time, and unruffled.
1. When in doubt, ask questions. When you speak with the individual who is setting your interview appointment, don’t be afraid to ask if you are unsure of the time and/or place that the interview will be held. Also, don’t be afraid to call back if you are still unsure.
2. Transportation. This means if you don’t have your own make sure you have a reliable way to get to your interview. Make sure you have gas in your car and air in your tires. (I know I sound like a Mom, so park under a light and don’t take candy from strangers, too…)
3. Make a dry run. Internet directions are not always accurate and neither are GPS devices, so if you are unsure of where your job interview will be held, drive there the night before to make sure you aren’t lost the day of the interview.
4. Be prompt. Arrive to the interview at least 5 minutes before your scheduled time so that you have time to mentally prepare yourself to be the shining star you know you are.
Now, I know life happens when you are busy making plans, so if you have to be late for an interview call as soon as you know you will be late. Be apologetic to the interviewer and let them know that you value their time. Ask if it is still possible to be interviewed, either when you can arrive or at a later date/time. Many interviewers are flexible enough to reschedule you, however don’t be surprised if they are unable to meet with you. If that is the case, thank them for their consideration.
Canceling or Declining a Job Interview
There may come a time when you will have to cancel a scheduled interview. This may be due to a personal reason, or that you just landed your dream job a day before your scheduled interview with another company.
Here are a few tips:
DO NOT, DO NOT, DO NOT (did I say DO NOT) be a no-show/no-call for an interview. Nothing will make a hiring manager remember you more than not showing up for your job interview. And trust me, the manager will remember your name for years to come. It is not just unprofessional, it is rude.
DO call the hiring manager as soon as you know you will not be coming. If at all possible, not the morning of your job interview.
DO thank the manager for the opportunity to interview with them. Leave them with the warm and fuzzies about you. DO express interest in possible future positions with the company. (you never know when that “dream job” is suddenly at this company)
Same rules apply if you have applied for a position but are no longer interested when you receive the phone call inviting you for an interview. DO NOT just ignore a phone call from a company requesting to interview you, DO return the call and politely decline the job interview. Thank them for their time and consideration.